New rabies measures brings emotional, financial relief

Monday

Dec 19, 2016 at 10:56 AMDec 19, 2016 at 10:57 AM

Amanda Thames AmandaThames

New information on rabies in pets looks to save money and prevent euthanasia.

The National Association of Public Health Veterinarians released new findings this year on when rabies symptoms would show, and the result means two months less in isolation for an animal exposed to the disease.

Before the new measures were announced, the NAPHV said an animal that had never been vaccinated would either have to be euthanized or have to get an immediate $25 shot and be placed in quarantine for six months, an estimated cost of $3,600.

The six-month quarantine was to ensure no symptoms would present themselves.

Now, the NAPHV said if no symptoms have shown within four months, the animal is safe to return home, resulting in an estimated $1,200 saved.

The biggest change is in animals overdue for a rabies shot, according to NAPHV. Previously the six-month quarantine was required, but with the new measures the animal can be kept under their owner’s observation in lieu of a quarantine center, meaning the owners don’t have to pay anything past the $25 booster shot.

Both Onslow and Carteret counties have adopted the new measures.

Public health attorneys and state veterinarians highly recommended adopting the new measures, said Carteret County Health Director David Jenkins.

“Our main concern is rabies from a health standpoint,” Jenkins said.

The goal of the new measures was to decrease the emotional and financial burden on the owners and the animals, he added.

“We’re trying to look out for the overall health of not only our animals, but our public, too,” Jenkins said.

Since adopting the new measures on Nov. 14 Jenkins said there have been no cases.

Between 2010 and 2015 no dogs from Onslow County were sent off for testing, said Onslow County Animal Services Director Howard Martin, but there were two cats, seven raccoons, and 12 foxes.

“The bottom line is $10 goes a long way,” Martin said. “That’s all it takes to get your dogs and cats vaccinated (against rabies).”

To get your pet vaccinated, visit Onslow County Animal Services at 244 Georgetown Road in Jacksonville between noon and 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays.